Punjab on Alert as Rain, Gusty Winds Expected from June 16 to 20

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert amid forecasts of rain, windstorms, and possible severe weather across Punjab from June 16 to June 20, urging authorities and residents to stay prepared. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, a westerly weather system is expected to enter the upper parts of the country on June 16 and remain active until June 20, triggering unstable weather conditions in various parts of the province. Under the influence of this system, scattered dust storms, gusty winds, and thunderstorms accompanied by isolated heavy rainfall and hailstorms are likely in several districts, including Rawalpindi, Murree, Attock, Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Bahawalpur, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rahim Yar Khan, and many surrounding areas during the forecast period, with occasional breaks. The PDMA warned that strong winds, lightning, and hailstorms could damage vulnerable infrastructure such as electricity poles, billboards, and solar panels. Downpours may also lead to urban flooding in major cities including Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Sialkot. Farmers have been advised to plan agricultural activities carefully in view of the expected weather conditions, while tourists and travellers have been urged to avoid unnecessary movement and remain cautious during the affected days. To ensure preparedness, district administrations and relevant departments have been directed to maintain round-the-clock staffing at emergency operation centres, strengthen coordination with the PDMA, and ensure timely public awareness regarding safety precautions and evacuation procedures. Authorities have also been instructed to prepare contingency plans for potential urban flooding during the 2026 monsoon season, carry out drain cleaning operations, position heavy machinery at vulnerable points, and keep emergency response teams on standby. Additionally, National Highways and Motorway Police have been directed t